Complete Closure of Kyiv’s Southern Bridge During Air Raids; Traffic Adjusted on Three Other Key Bridges

Temporary Traffic Restrictions on Kyiv’s Bridges During Air Raid Alerts

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: In response to ongoing air raid warnings, Kyiv authorities have implemented temporary traffic restrictions affecting four major bridges. The Southern Bridge faces the strictest measure, being fully closed to all vehicles in both directions. Additionally, traffic flow will be altered on the Darnytskyi, Metro, and Podilsko-Voskresenskyi bridges. These steps follow damage caused by Russian military attacks targeting the Southern Bridge, which have disrupted metro and public transportation services on the structure.

Specifics of the Traffic Changes

During air raid alarms, the Southern Bridge will be completely closed for traffic traveling both ways. On the Darnytskyi Bridge, vehicles will be permitted to travel only in one lane from the right bank to the left bank. Meanwhile, the Metro and Podilsko-Voskresenskyi bridges will have their traffic from the left bank to the right bank suspended. Alexey Biloshytskyi, head of the Patrol Police Department, has urged drivers to take these modifications into account when planning their routes.

Following night attacks, not only the Southern Bridge but also the Paton and Metro bridges were temporarily closed to public transport. Currently, public transit is rerouted through the Darnytskyi Bridge. On the night of October 2, Russian forces struck the Southern Bridge for the third time. Prior to this, two drones hit near a support pillar on the evening of October 1. The assault damaged structural supports, a crash barrier, a traffic lane, and the metro’s concrete protective barrier. As a precaution, metro specialists cut power to the rail tracks, halting both metro and surface public transport across the Southern Bridge. On October 2, occupiers launched a fourth drone attack on the bridge.

'We kindly ask for your understanding regarding these traffic changes and encourage you to factor this information into your travel plans.' Alexey Biloshytskyi

These temporary restrictions on major Kyiv bridges are part of broader safety measures amid increasing threats from Russian military actions. Closing the Southern Bridge entirely and limiting access on other bridges aim to protect residents and reduce risks during air raid alerts. Authorities are calling on drivers and passengers to remain vigilant and adjust their travel routes accordingly.

As the situation around the Southern Bridge remains critical, the Kyiv Metro is making preparations to potentially restart train services across the bridge, contingent on expert evaluations. This development highlights the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy in public transportation despite the recent disruptions. For more details on the metro's readiness and the anticipated timeline for resuming operations, read about the Kyiv Metro's plans.